In the quest to grow stronger economic relationship between Nigeria and Germany, the delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria-German Business Association and the German-African Business Association hopes to explore new investment opportunities at this year’s forum.
The investment forum which kicked-off June 22 with the theme; ‘Leveraging partnership for economic growth’, will provide opportunities for Nigerian and German businesses to network, exchange information and establish business contacts.
Olayinka Oladunjoye, the commissioner of Commerce, Industry and Corporative speaking on behalf of the Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode assured investors of stable political environment, improvement in power supply and security in the state. He also stated that the Lagos state government is currently focusing on the development of critical business sectors such as agriculture and food processing, provision of equipment to farmers, promotion of agricultural value chains, and expansion of fish production.
Dr. Marc Lucassen, a delegate of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria confirmed the aim of the forum was to promote economic prosperity between Nigeria and German, create more business opportunities and provide excellent relationship between both countries. Dr. Bernhard Schlagheck, the Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to provide adequate security for investors as economic stability is imperative in any economy.
Yewande Sadiku, the Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), in her presentation described Africa as the most attractive investment destination in the world, stating that the population speaks to market and potential consumers as Africa is the only continent designated in 2050 to grow more than double in size, while Nigeria will grow more than five per cent a year.
She urged investors to believe Africa and Nigeria’s attractiveness will improve in the future, stating that statistics shows 66 per cent believe attractiveness has improved over the past year in Africa, while 81 per cent believe the attractiveness will improve over the next few years.
